Meet Joan, a 16-year-old Athlete who had an exciting opportunity Tokyo. She was invited to represent Sierra Leone by competing in the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo Japan! She finished 10th in the Women’s Javelin Throw, after only taking up the sport earlier this year.

In 2019, Joan was invited to participate in the African Paralympic Games in Tunisia after being spotted at an ETC sports event earlier that year.

With the COVID-19 pandemic travel restrictions, Joan was at first unsure if she would be able to attend. After navigating travel safely, both Joan and her mom were able to attend the competition in Tunisia.

Joan excelled in these Games and earned two medals, one silver and the other bronze, competing in Track and Field.

This great accomplishment is what opened the door for Joan to compete at the Tokyo Paralympic Games. When Joan received the invitation to the Tokyo Paralympic Games, she and her family, as well as the ETC staff, were excited for her participation on the world stage. They felt that through showcasing her skills she could break barriers for those in Sierra Leone who are impacted by disabilities.

“I love javelin because it gives me courage. Me having one arm does not mean that I cannot throw. I have the passion for sport and want to achieve in life.”
~ Joan

ETC is a WHI program in Freetown, Sierra Leone, made up of local and expatriate staff who provide physiotherapy and occupational therapy, care, and support services to children living with disabilities.